Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) extract causes ROS-induced necrotic cell death and inhibits tumor growth in vivo

Efficacy of neutral electrolyzed water vs. common topical antiseptics in the healing of full‑thickness burn: Preclinical trial in a mouse model

Burn injuries impose challenges such as infection risk, pain management, fluid loss, electrolyte imbalance and psychological and emotional impact, on healthcare professionals, requiring effective treatments to enhance wound healing. The present study evaluated the efficacy superoxidized electrolyzed solution (SES), with low (SES-low) or high (SES-high) concentrations of active species, alone or in combination with a formulation in gel (G), in comparison with commonly prescribed treatments for burn injury, including nitrofurazone (NF) and silver sulfadiazine (S); normal saline was used as placebo (PI). A scald burn model was established in BALB/c mice. Measurements of the burned area and histological parameters such as inflammatory infiltration state, epithelial regeneration and collagen fibers were evaluated on days 3, 6, 9, 18 and 32 to assess healing score and status. All treatments achieved wound closure at day 32; histopathological parameters indicated that SES-low and SES-low + G performed better than the Pl and S groups (P<0.05). All treatments showed a lower count of inflammatory cells compared with S (P<0.05); for collagen deposition and orientation, SES-low + G showed a more uniform horizontal orientation compared with Pl, SES-high + G, NF and S groups (P<0.05). SES-Low was the most effective substance to induce favorable and organized healing, while S was the worst, inducing disorganized closure of the wound due to a pro-inflammatory effect.

Rosmarinic Acid: A Potential Therapeutic Agent in Gastrointestinal Cancer Management-A Review

Gastrointestinal cancers are still the leading cause of death worldwide. This is related, among other things, to the non-specific symptoms, especially in the initial stages, and also to the limited possibilities for treatment. Therefore, research is still being conducted to improve the detection of this type of cancer and increase the effectiveness of therapy. The potential application of natural compounds in cancer management deserves special attention. In the group of such products, there are polyphenolic compounds that reveal, e.g., anti-oxidative, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and neuroprotective properties. One of these polyphenols is rosmarinic acid, commonly found in plants such as the Boraginaceae and Nepetoideae subfamilies of the Lamiaceae (mint) family. A number of studies have considered the positive effects of rosmarinic acid in the treatment of many cancers, including gastrointestinal ones such as oral, stomach, pancreas, colon, and liver cancers. The main aim of this paper was to summarize the mechanisms of action of rosmarinic acid in gastrointestinal cancers.

Reveal the mechanism of hepatic oxidative stress in mice induced by photo-oxidation milk using multi-omics analysis techniques

INTRODUCTION

Photo-oxidation is recognized as a contributor to the deterioration of milk quality, posing potential safety hazards to human health. However, there has been limited investigation into the impact of consuming photo-oxidized milk on health.

OBJECTIVES

This study employs multi-omics analysis techniques to elucidate the mechanisms by which photo-oxidized milk induces oxidative stress in the liver.

METHODS

Mouse model was used to determine the effect of the gavage administration of milk with varying degrees of photo-oxidation on the mouse liver. The damage degree was established by measuring serum markers indicative of oxidative stress, and with a subsequent histopathological examination of liver tissues. In addition, comprehensive metabolome, lipidome, and transcriptome analyses were conducted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of hepatic damage caused by photo-oxidized milk.

RESULTS

A significant elevation in the oxidative stress levels and the presence of hepatocellular swelling and inflammation subsequent to the gavage administration of photo-oxidized milk to mice. Significant alterations in the levels of metabolites such as lumichrome, all-trans-retinal, L-valine, phosphatidylglycerol, and phosphatidylcholine within the hepatic tissue of mice. Moreover, photo-oxidized milk exerted a pronounced detrimental impact on the glycerophospholipid metabolism of mice liver. The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) signaling pathway enrichment appreciated in the animals that consumed photo-oxidized milk further supports the substantial negative influence of photo-oxidized milk on hepatic lipid metabolism. Gene set enrichment and interaction analyses revealed that photo-oxidized milk inhibited the cytochrome P450 pathway in mice, while also affecting other pathways associated with cellular stress response and lipid biosynthesis.

CONCLUSION

This comprehensive study provides significant evidence regarding the potential health risks associated with photo-oxidized milk, particularly in terms of hepatic oxidative damage. It establishes a scientific foundation for assessing the safety of such milk and ensuring the quality of dairy products.

Potential Role of Dietary Phenolic Compounds in the Prevention and Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Current Reports

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex illness with both hereditary and environmental components. Globally, in 2019, 18 million people had RA. RA is characterized by persistent inflammation of the synovial membrane that lines the joints, cartilage loss, and bone erosion. Phenolic molecules are the most prevalent secondary metabolites in plants, with a diverse spectrum of biological actions that benefit functional meals and nutraceuticals. These compounds have received a lot of attention recently because they have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-rheumatoid activity by modulating tumor necrosis factor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, and c-Jun N-terminal kinases, as well as other preventative properties. This article discusses dietary polyphenols, their pharmacological properties, and innovative delivery technologies for the treatment of RA, with a focus on their possible biological activities. Nonetheless, commercialization of polyphenols may be achievable only after confirming their safety profile and completing successful clinical trials.

Plant Based Extract Oil-Based Nano emulsions: Impact on Human Melanoma Cell Line

BACKGROUND

Cancer is a challenge for either the patient or the healthcare manager. Treatment protocols based on chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or both are interfering with the patient's life making him suffer rather than being alleviated. This burden pushed the scientists to search for new regimens that may help ameliorate patient as well as doctor inconvenience. Benefits of plant extracts as medical substitutes in cancer management have been proved. New nano formulated drug delivery systems may help overcoming remedy regimens barriers and obstacles. The present research topic aims to evaluate the anticancer power of two plant extracts in nano emulsion formulation on human melanoma cell line.

METHODS

Carvacrol and rosemary essential oils were obtained, and nano emulsions were formulated. NE were characterized using TEM for charge and size distribution. The A375 human melanoma cell line was cultured and propagated then IC50 of prepared NE was added. Assessment of cell cytotoxicity, effect on angiogenesis and apoptosis were tested.

RESULTS

After synthesis and characterization, both carvacrol nano emulsion (CNE) and rosemary nano emulsion (RNE) were capable of inhibiting melanoma cell line viability, angiogenesis and they enhanced the expression of caspase-3 proapoptotic marker.

CONCLUSION

Rosemary and carvacrol extract nano emulsions could be a new revolutionary agent in human melanoma therapy and these formulations can be applied locally.

A Comprehensive Review of Various Therapeutic Strategies for the Management of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer (SC) poses a global threat to the healthcare system and is expected to increase significantly over the next two decades if not diagnosed at an early stage. Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment, as the disease becomes more challenging to cure as it progresses. However, identifying new drugs, achieving clinical success, and overcoming drug resistance remain significant challenges. To overcome these obstacles and provide effective treatment, it is crucial to understand the causes of skin cancer, how cells grow and divide, factors that affect cell growth, and how drug resistance occurs. In this review, we have explained various therapeutic approaches for SC treatment via ligands, targeted photosensitizers, natural and synthetic drugs for the treatment of SC, an epigenetic approach for management of melanoma, photodynamic therapy, and targeted therapy for BRAF-mutated melanoma. This article also provides a detailed summary of the various natural drugs that are effective in managing melanoma and reducing the occurrence of skin cancer at early stages and focuses on the current status and future prospects of various therapies available for the management of skin cancer.

Rosemary as a Potential Source of Natural Antioxidants and Anticancer Agents: A Molecular Docking Study

Rosmarinus officinalis L. compounds, especially its main polyphenolic compounds, carnosic acid (CA) and rosmarinic acid (RA), influence various facets of cancer biology, making them valuable assets in the ongoing fight against cancer. These two secondary metabolites exhibit formidable antioxidant properties that are a pivotal contributor against the development of cancer. Their antitumor effect has been related to diverse mechanisms. In the case of CA, it has the capacity to induce cell death of cancer cells through the rise in ROS levels within the cells, the inhibition of protein kinase AKT, the activation of autophagy-related genes (ATG) and the disrupt mitochondrial membrane potential. Regarding RA, its antitumor actions encompass apoptosis induction through caspase activation, the inhibition of cell proliferation by interrupting cell cycle progression and epigenetic regulation, antioxidative stress-induced DNA damage, and interference with angiogenesis to curtail tumor growth. To understand the molecular interaction between rosemary compounds (CA and RA) and a protein that is involved in cancer and inflammation, S100A8, we have performed a series of molecular docking analyses using the available three-dimensional structures (PDBID: 1IRJ, 1MR8, and 4GGF). The ligands showed different binding intensities in the active sites with the protein target molecules, except for CA with the 1MR8 protein.

BuOH fraction of Salix Babylonica L. extract increases pancreatic beta-cell tumor death at lower doses without harming their function

Salix babylonica L. is a species of the willow tree. Insulinoma is a tumor originating from pancreatic beta cells. This study aims to research the effect of different fractions of Salix babylonica L. leaf extract on INS-1 cells for treating pancreatic tumors. Cell death occurred at lower doses in the EtOAc fraction. The cells are functional in the BuOH fraction but not in EtOAc and H₂O fractions. The EtOAc fraction has a higher percentage of necrosis and ROS. INS1, INS2, and AKT gene expressions in the H₂O fraction, GLUT2, IR, HSP70 gene expressions, and WNT4 protein levels increased in the BuOH fraction. HSP90 gene expression, Beta-actin, GAPDH, insulin, HSP70, HSP90, HSF1, Beta-Catenin, and WNT7A protein levels were decreased, while IR immunolabelling intensity increased in both fractions. Ca⁺², K⁺, Na⁺, and CA-19-9 in the cell, Ca⁺² and K⁺ in secretion increased. The secondary metabolites in the EtOAc fraction cause more damage in INS-1 cells. Since the water fraction also causes the cells to die in high doses, cell function is damaged. The secondary metabolites in the BuOH fraction kill INS-1 cells with less damage. This makes the BuOH fraction of Salix babylonica L. more valuable.

Phenolic compounds as Nrf2 inhibitors: potential applications in cancer therapy

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and involves an oxidative stress mechanism. The transcription factor Nrf2 has a crucial role in cytoprotective response against oxidative stress, including cancer growth and progression and therapy resistance. For this reason, inhibitors of Nrf2 are new targets to be studied. Traditional plant-based remedies rich in phytochemicals have been used against human cancers and phenolic compounds are known for their chemopreventive properties. This comprehensive review offers an updated review of the role of phenolic compounds as anticancer agents due to their action on Nrf2 inhibition. In addition, the role of naturally-occurring bioactive anticancer agents are covered in the clinical applications of polyphenols as Nrf2 inhibitors. Video Abstract.

Interactions between Natural Products-A Review

Plant-based natural products have been used as a source for therapeutics since the dawn of civilization. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 80% of the world's population relies on traditional medicine for their primary healthcare. Numerous natural extracts, widely known in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Indian Ayurveda medicine and other practices, have led to the modern discovery and development of new drugs. Plants continuously interact with their environment, producing new compounds and ever-changing combinations of existing ones. Interestingly, some of the compounds have shown lower therapeutic activity in comparison to the extract they were isolated from. These findings suggest that the higher therapeutic activity of the source extract was due to the synergistic effect of several compounds. In other words, the total therapeutic potential of the extract cannot be explained only by the sum of its parts alone. In traditional medicine, most herbal remedies are based on a mixture of plants, and it is the interaction between different constituents that amplifies their therapeutic potential. Considering the significant influence traditional medicine has on human healthcare, knowing and studying the synergistic effect of compounds is paramount in designing smart therapeutic agents.

Chemical and Antimicrobial Characterization of Mentha piperita L. and Rosmarinus officinalis L. Essential Oils and In Vitro Potential Cytotoxic Effect in Human Colorectal Carcinoma Cells

Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed forms of cancer, and the therapeutic solutions are frequently aggressive requiring improvements. Essential oils (EOs) are secondary metabolites of aromatic plants with important pharmacological properties that proved to be beneficial in multiple pathologies including cancer. Mentha piperita L. (M_EO) and Rosmarinus officinalis L. (R_EO) essential oils are well-known for their biological effects (antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic in different cancer cells), but their potential as complementary treatment in colorectal cancer is underexplored. The aim of the present study was to investigate the M_EO and R_EO in terms of chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic effects in a colorectal cancer cell line—HCT 116. The gas-chromatographic analysis revealed menthone and menthol, and eucalyptol, α-pinene and L-camphor as major compounds in M_EO and R_EO respectively. M_EO exhibited potent antimicrobial activity, moderate antioxidant activity and a low cytotoxic effect in HCT 116 cells. R_EO presented a significant cytotoxicity in colorectal cancer cells and a low antimicrobial effect. The cytotoxic effect on non-cancerous cell line HaCaT was not significant for both essential oils. These results may provide an experimental basis for further research concerning the potential use of M_EO and R_EO for anticancer treatment.

Chemoprevention effect of the Mediterranean diet on colorectal cancer: Current studies and future prospects

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second most deadly cancer worldwide. Nevertheless, more than 70% of CRC cases are resulted from sporadic tumorigenesis and are not inherited. Since adenoma-carcinoma development is a slow process and may take up to 20 years, diet-based chemoprevention could be an effective approach in sporadic CRC. The Mediterranean diet is an example of a healthy diet pattern that consists of a combination of nutraceuticals that prevent several chronic diseases and cancer. Many epidemiological studies have shown the correlation between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and low incidence of CRC. The goal of this review is to shed the light on the anti-inflammatory and anti-colorectal cancer potentials of the natural bioactive compounds derived from the main foods in the Mediterranean diet.

Rosmarinus officinalis L. hexane extract: phytochemical analysis, nanoencapsulation, and in silico, in vitro, and in vivo anti-photoaging potential evaluation

A shift towards natural anti-aging ingredients has spurred the research to valorize traditionally used plants. In this context, Rosmarinus officinalis L. was evaluated for its photoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-wrinkling properties. GC/MS and LC-ESI-HRMS based phytochemical profiling of rosemary leaves hexane extract resulted in the identification of 47 and 31 compounds, respectively and revealed rich content in triterpenoids, monoterpenoids and phenolic diterpenes. In vitro assays confirmed the antioxidant, anti-aging, and wound healing potential of rosemary extract along with a good safety profile, encouraging further development. A systematic molecular modelling study was conducted to elucidate the mechanistic background of rosemary anti-aging properties through the inhibitory effects of its major constituents against key anti-aging targets viz. elastase, collagenase, and hyaluronidase. Development of rosemary extract lipid nanocapsules-based mucoadhesive gels was performed to improve skin contact, permeation, and bioavailability prior to in vivo testing. The developed formulae demonstrated small particle size (56.55–66.13 nm), homogenous distribution (PDI of 0.207–0.249), and negatively charged Zeta potential (− 13.4 to − 15.6). In UVB-irradiated rat model, topical rosemary hexane extract-loaded lipid nanocapsules-based gel provided photoprotection, restored the antioxidant biochemical state, improved epidermal and dermal histological features, and decreased the level of inflammatory and wrinkling markers. The use of rosemary hexane extract in anti-aging and photoprotective cosmeceuticals represents a safe, efficient, and cost-effective approach.

Therapeutic benefits of Salvia species: A focus on cancer and viral infection

Man is increasingly being faced with many health conditions, including viral infection, some of which increases the risk to cancer. These infectious agents contribute to the large number of persons with cancer and the worrisome number that die from the diseases. A good range of drugs are currently in place for treating patients infected with viruses, however, some of the drugs' effectiveness are limited by the emergence of drug-resistant strains of the viruses, as well as adverse effects of the drugs. Similarly, the inability of many anticancer drugs to selectively kill cancer cells while sparing hosts' normal cells limit their use. This warrants more research for newer drugs, especially from chemicals naturally encrypted in plants with anticancer and antiviral activities. In response to infection with cancer-inducing viruses, plants such as Salvia species synthesize and store secondary metabolites to protect themselves and kill these viruses as well as inhibit their ability to induce carcinogenesis. Hence, this review presented a discussion on the potential application of Salvia species in the prevention and management of cancer and viral infection. The study also discusses the cellular mechanisms of action of these herbal products against cancer cells and viruses, where available and provided suggestions on future research directions. The study is believed to spur more research on how to exploit Salvia phytochemicals as candidates for the development of nutraceuticals and drugs for managing cancers and viral infection.

Modulation of Hair Growth Promoting Effect by Natural Products

A large number of people suffer from alopecia or hair loss worldwide. Drug-based therapies using minoxidil and finasteride for the treatment of alopecia are available, but they have shown various side effects in patients. Thus, the use of new therapeutic approaches using bioactive products to reduce the risk of anti-hair-loss medications has been emphasized. Natural products have been used since ancient times and have been proven safe, with few side effects. Several studies have demonstrated the use of plants and their extracts to promote hair growth. Moreover, commercial products based on these natural ingredients have been developed for the treatment of alopecia. Several clinical, animal, and cell-based studies have been conducted to determine the anti-alopecia effects of plant-derived biochemicals. This review is a collective study of phytochemicals with anti-alopecia effects, focusing mainly on the mechanisms underlying their hair-growth-promoting effects.

An overview of the chemistry and anticancer properties of rosemary extract and its diterpenes

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), a culinary herb of the family Lamiaceae, has promising anticancer activity. This overview has updated the current knowledge on the chemistry and anticancer properties of rosemary extract, carnosic acid, carnosol, and rosmanol, focusing on colon and prostate cancer cells since they are the most susceptible. The information was procured from Google, Google Scholar, PubMed, PubMed Central, Science Direct, J-Stage, and PubChem. Phenolic compounds isolated from the aerial parts of R. officinalis are flavonoids, phenolic acids, diterpenes, triterpenes, terpenoids, and phenylpropanoids. Some of the compounds are new to science, to the genus, and to the species. Almost 30 compounds possess anticancer properties. Rosemary extracts contain abietane diterpenes, with carnosic acid, carnosol, and rosmanol being the most common. Their molecular structures are similar to three fused aromatic rings. Carnosic acid has a –COOH group at C20, carnosol has a lactone ring occurs across the B ring, and rosmanol has a –OH group at C7. Against colon and prostate cancer cells, the rosemary extract and diterpenes inhibited cell viability and induced apoptosis and G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. The inhibition of cell migration and adhesion has also been reported. The rosemary extract and diterpenes also inhibited colon and prostate cancer xenograft in mice. Rosemary extract is more cytotoxic than the diterpenes due to its polyphenols such as flavonoids and triterpenes. In vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activities involve different molecular targets and signalling pathways. Some prospects and areas for future research are suggested.

A Study of Phytochemistry, Genoprotective Activity, and Antitumor Effects of Extracts of the Selected Lamiaceae Species

This study was designed to evaluate the genoprotective, antigenotoxic, as well as antitumor potential of methanolic, ethanolic, and aqueous extracts of Melissa officinalis, Mentha × piperita, Ocimum basilicum, Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia officinalis, and Satureja montana (Lamiaceae), in different model systems. The polyphenols in these extracts were quantified both spectrophotometrically and using HPLC-DAD technique, while DPPH assay was used to assess the antioxidant activity. The genoprotective potential was tested on pUC19 Escherichia coli XL1-blue, and the antigenotoxicity on Salmonella typhimurium TA1535/pSK1002 and human lung fibroblasts, while the antitumor activity was assessed on colorectal cancer cells. Rosmarinic acid, quercetin, rutin, and luteolin-7-O-glucoside were among the identified compounds. Methanolic extracts had the best DPPH-scavenging and SOS-inducing activities, while ethanolic extracts exhibited the highest antigenotoxicity. Additionally, all extracts exhibited genoprotective potential on plasmid DNA. The antitumor effect was mediated by modulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO) production, and exhibition of genotoxic effects on tumor cells, especially with O. basilicum ethanolic extract. Generally, the investigated extracts were able to provide antioxidant protection for the acellular, prokaryotic, and normal human DNA, while also modulating the production of ROS and NO in tumor cells, leading to genotoxicity toward these cells and their decrease in proliferation.

Extraction and Encapsulation of Phenolic Compounds of Tunisian Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) Extracts in Silk Fibroin Nanoparticles

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is known to be an effective potential source of natural antioxidants which confer benefits to human health. Their bioactive properties are mainly due to phenolic compounds but these molecules are highly vulnerable to oxidants, light, heat, pH, water and enzymatic activities. Therefore, the stability and shelf life of phenolic compounds should be increased by being protected from chemical and physical damage by means of encapsulation prior to application. Encapsulation is becoming increasingly important in the pharmaceutical, food, cosmetics, textile, personal care, chemical, biotechnology, and medicinal industries due to its potential for stabilization and delivery of delicate and precious bioactive compounds. The aim of the present work was to describe the polyphenolic profile of Tunisian Rosemary, collected from two different bioclimatic areas, and further loading in silk fibroin nanoparticles. The loaded nanoparticles were characterized in terms of morphology, size, polydispersity, Z-potential, secondary structure of the protein, encapsulation efficiency, loading content, and antioxidant activity. On one hand, HPLC analysis revealed the presence of 18 polyphenolic compounds of whichcarnosic acid and carnosol were found to be the most abundant compounds (46.3 to 76.4 and 22.4 to 43.5 mg of compound per gram of dry plant weight (mg/g DPW) respectively), Total phenolic content (TPC) ranged from 85.8 to 137.3 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g DPW in post-distilled rosemary extracts andantioxidant activity reached the values of 5.9 to 8.3 µmol of ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE)/g DPW). On the other hand loaded nanoparticles were almost spherical and presented nanometric size and negative Z-potential. Although the encapsulation efficiency in silk fibroin nanoparticles and the drug loading content were low in the conditions of the assay, the encapsulated polyphenols retained near 85% of the radical scavenging activity against DPPH· after 24 h. of incubation at 37 °C. The results showed that post-distilled rosemary residues had an effective potential as natural antioxidants due to their significant antioxidant activity and seemed to be useful in both pharmaceutical and food industries with beneficial properties that might confer benefits to human health and these silk fibroin nanoparticles loaded with rosemary extracts are thus a promising combination for several applications in food technology or nanomedicine.

Review On Documented Medicinal Plants Used For The Treatment Of Cancer

Background:

Cancer is a frightful disease and it is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Naturally derived compounds are gaining interest of research workers as they have less toxic side effects as compared to currently used treatments such as chemotherapy. Plants are the pool of chemical compounds which provides a promising future for research on cancer.

Objective:

This review paper provides updated information gathered on medicinal plants and isolated phytoconstituents used as anticancer agents and summarises the plant extracts and their isolated chemical constituents exhibiting anticancer potential on clinical trials.

Methods:

An extensive bibliographic investigation was carried out by analysing worldwide established scientific databases like SCOPUS, PUBMED, SCIELO, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, Web of Science, Wiley, SciFinder and Google Scholar etc. In next few decades, herbal medicine may become a new epoch of medical system.

Results:

Many researches are going on medicinal plants for the treatment of cancer but it is a time to increase further experimental studies on plant extracts and their chemical constituents to find out their mechanism of action at molecular level.

Conclusion:

The article may help many researchers to start off further experimentation that might lead to the drugs for the cancer treatment.

A Nudibranch Marine Extract Selectively Chemosensitizes Colorectal Cancer Cells by Inducing ROS-Mediated Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

The present study shows the putative antiproliferative mechanism of action of the previously analytically characterized nudibranch extract (Dolabella auricularia, NB) and its different effects in colon cancer cells vs. nontumor colon cells. NB extract increased the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress via stimulation of the unfolded protein response. Stress scavengers, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), decreased the stress induced by NB. The results showed that NB extract increased ER stress through overproduction of ROS in superinvasive colon cancer cells, decreased their resistance threshold, and produced a nonreturn level of ER stress, causing DNA damage and cell cycle arrest, which prevented them from achieving hyperproliferative capacity and migrating to and invading other tissues. On the contrary, NB extract had a considerably lower effect on nontumor human colon cells, suggesting a selective effect related to stress balance homeostasis. In conclusion, our results confirm that the growth and malignancy of colon cancer cells can be decreased by marine compounds through the modification of one of the most potent resistance mechanisms present in tumor cells; this characteristic differentiates cancer cells from nontumor cells in terms of stress balance.

Antioxidant and anticancer potentials of edible flowers: where do we stand?

Edible flowers are attracting special therapeutic attention and their administration is on the rise. Edible flowers play pivotal modulatory roles on oxidative stress and related interconnected apoptotic/inflammatory pathways toward the treatment of cancer. In this review, we highlighted the phytochemical content and therapeutic applications of edible flowers, as well as their modulatory potential on the oxidative stress pathways and apoptotic/inflammatory mediators, resulting in anticancer effects. Edible flowers are promising sources of phytochemicals (e.g., phenolic compounds, carotenoids, terpenoids) with several therapeutic effects. They possess anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-depressant, anxiolytic, anti-obesity, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Edible flowers potentially modulate oxidative stress by targeting erythroid nuclear transcription factor-2/extracellular signal-regulated kinase/mitogen-activated protein kinase (Nrf2/ERK/MAPK), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide (NO), malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant response elements (AREs). As the interconnected pathways to oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), interleukins (ILs) as well as apoptotic pathways such as Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), Bcl-2, caspase and cytochrome C are critical targets of edible flowers in combating cancer. In this regard, edible flowers could play promising anticancer effects by targeting oxidative stress and downstream dysregulated pathways.

Conventional and Enzyme-Assisted Extraction of Rosemary Leaves (Rosmarinus officinalis L.): Toward a Greener Approach to High Added-Value Extracts

The effect of different extraction methods of rosemary leaves on the total phenolic content (TPC), and the antioxidant activity of the extracts was herein investigated. Firstly, the solid-liquid conventional extraction (CEM) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) were implemented in an effort to identify the effect of the solvent and of microwave irradiation on the extract quality. The extract obtained from CEM at room temperature, using ethanol/water 95:5 v/v, showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 12.1 μg/mL). MAE using ethanol/water 50:50 v/v provided an extract with TPC and DPPH radical scavenging ability in a significantly shorter extraction time (1 h for MAE and 24 h for CEM). Enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) using five commercial enzyme formulations was implemented, and the kinetic equation was calculated. Finally, the effect of EAE as a pretreatment method to CEM was examined. Pretreatment of the plant material with pectinolytic enzymes for 1 h prior to a 24 h CEM with 50% hydroethanolic solvent was found to be the optimum conditions for the extraction of rosemary leaves, providing an extract with higher DPPH radical scavenging ability (IC50 14.3 ± 0.8 μg/mL) and TPC (15.2 ± 0.3 mgGAE/grosemary) than the corresponding extract without the enzyme pretreatment.

Carnosic Acid Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Akt/mTOR Signaling in Human Gastric Cancer Cell Lines

Gastric cancer is among the most common malignancies worldwide. Due to limited availability of therapeutic options, there is a constant need to find new therapies that could target advanced, recurrent, and metastatic gastric cancer. Carnosic acid is a naturally occurring polyphenolic abietane diterpene derived from Rosmarinus officinalis and reported to have numerous pharmacological effects. In this study, the cytotoxicity assay, Annexin V-FITC/PI, caspases 3, 8, and 9, cell cycle analysis, and Western blotting were used to assess the effect of carnosic acid on the growth and survival of human gastric cancer cell lines (AGS and MKN-45). Our findings showed that carnosic acid inhibited human gastric cancer cell proliferation and survival in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, carnosic acid is found to inhibit the phosphorylation/activation of Akt and mTOR. Moreover, carnosic acid enhanced the cleavage of PARP and downregulated survivin expression, both being known markers of apoptosis. In conclusion, carnosic acid exhibits antitumor activity against human gastric cancer cells via modulating the Akt-mTOR signaling pathway that plays a crucial role in gastric cancer cell proliferation and survival.

Curry versus cancer: Potential of some selected culinary spices against cancer with in vitro, in vivo, and human trials evidences

Spices are dietary agents with immense potential for cancer chemo-prevention. A wide variety of spices are extensively used as food flavoring agents which possess potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties due to the presence of certain bio-active compounds in them. In vitro, in vivo studies and clinical trials of selected spices against various types of cancer are being specified in this review. Effect of certain putative dietary spices namely turmeric, clove, garlic, ginger, fennel, black cumin, cinnamon, pepper, saffron, rosemary, and chilli along with its role in cancer are being discussed. Literature search was conducted through PubMed, Google scholar, Science direct, and Scopus using the keywords "spice," "cancer," "natural medicine," "herbal compound," "bioactive compounds." About 4,000 published articles and 127 research papers were considered to grab the brief knowledge on spices and their anticancer potential on a predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Historically, spices and herbs are known for its traditional flavor, odor, and medicinal properties. Intensified risk of chronic and pervasive clinical conditions and increased cost of advanced drug treatments have developed a keen interest among researchers to explore the miscellaneous properties of herbal spices. Cancer is one of the deleterious causes of mortality affecting a huge number of populations worldwide. Arrays of cancer treatments including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are used to compromise the disease but effective only when the size of the tumor is small. So, an effective treatment need to be developed that produces less side effects and herbal spices are found to be the promising agents. In this review, we illustrate about different in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies of wide range of culinary spices having antineoplastic potential.

Effects of Spices (Saffron, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric and Ginger) in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent dementia in the elderly, causing disability, physical, psychological, social, and economic damage to the individual, their families, and caregivers. Studies have shown some spices, such as saffron, rosemary, cinnamon, turmeric, and ginger, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that act in inhibiting the aggregation of acetylcholinesterase and amyloid in AD. For this reason, spices have been studied as beneficial sources against neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. In this sense, this study aims to present a review of some spices (Saffron, Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric and Ginger) and their bioactive compounds, most consumed and investigated in the world regarding AD. In this article, scientific evidence is compiled in clinical trials in adults, the elderly, animals, and in vitro, on properties considered neuroprotective, having no or negative effects on neuroprotection of these spices and their bioactive compounds. The importance of this issue is based on the pharmacological treatment for AD that is still not very effective. In addition, the recommendations and prescriptions of these spices are still permeated by questioning and lack of robust evidence of their effects on neurodegeneration. The literature search suggests all spices included in this article have bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions associated with neuroprotection. To date, the amounts of spice ingestion in humans are not uniform, and there is no consensus on its indication and chronic consumption guarantees safety and efficacy in neuroprotection. Therefore, clinical evidence on this topic is necessary to become a formal adjuvant treatment for AD.

Natural Health Products (NHP's) and Natural Compounds as Therapeutic Agents for the Treatment of Cancer; Mechanisms of Anti-Cancer Activity of Natural Compounds and Overall Trends

Most cancer therapeutics, such as tubulin-targeting chemotherapy drugs, cause cytotoxic, non-selective effects. These harmful side-effects drastically reduce the cancer patient's quality of life. Recently, researchers have focused their efforts on studying natural health products (NHP's) which have demonstrated the ability to selectively target cancer cells in cellular and animal models. However, the major hurdle of clinical validation remains. NHP's warrant further clinical investigation as a therapeutic option since they exhibit low toxicity, while retaining a selective effect. Additionally, they can sensitize cancerous cells to chemotherapy, which enhances the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drugs, indicating that they can be utilized as supplemental therapy. An additional area for further research is the investigation of drug-drug interactions between NHP's and chemotherapeutics. The objectives of this review are to report the most recent results from the field of anticancer NHP research, and to highlight the most recent advancements in possible supplemental therapeutic options.

The WNT/β‐catenin dependent transcription: A tissue‐specific business

β‐catenin‐mediated Wnt signaling is an ancient cell‐communication pathway in which β‐catenin drives the expression of certain genes as a consequence of the trigger given by extracellular WNT molecules. The events occurring from signal to transcription are evolutionarily conserved, and their final output orchestrates countless processes during embryonic development and tissue homeostasis. Importantly, a dysfunctional Wnt/β‐catenin pathway causes developmental malformations, and its aberrant activation is the root of several types of cancer. A rich literature describes the multitude of nuclear players that cooperate with β‐catenin to generate a transcriptional program. However, a unified theory of how β‐catenin drives target gene expression is still missing. We will discuss two types of β‐catenin interactors: transcription factors that allow β‐catenin to localize at target regions on the DNA, and transcriptional co‐factors that ultimately activate gene expression. In contrast to the presumed universality of β‐catenin's action, the ensemble of available evidence suggests a view in which β‐catenin drives a complex system of responses in different cells and tissues. A malleable armamentarium of players might interact with β‐catenin in order to activate the right “canonical” targets in each tissue, developmental stage, or disease context. Discovering the mechanism by which each tissue‐specific β‐catenin response is executed will be crucial to comprehend how a seemingly universal pathway fosters a wide spectrum of processes during development and homeostasis. Perhaps more importantly, this could ultimately inform us about which are the tumor‐specific components that need to be targeted to dampen the activity of oncogenic β‐catenin.

This article is categorized under:

Cancer > Molecular and Cellular Physiology

Cancer > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Cancer > Stem Cells and Development

An In Vitro Evaluation of the Molecular Mechanisms of Action of Medical Plants from the Lamiaceae Family as Effective Sources of Active Compounds against Human Cancer Cell Lines

It is predicted that 1.8 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed worldwide in 2020; of these, the incidence of lung, colon, breast, and prostate cancers will be 22%, 9%, 7%, and 5%, respectively according to the National Cancer Institute. As the global medical cost of cancer in 2020 will exceed about $150 billion, new approaches and novel alternative chemoprevention molecules are needed. Research indicates that the plants of the Lamiaceae family may offer such potential. The present study reviews selected species from the Lamiaceae and their active compounds that may have the potential to inhibit the growth of lung, breast, prostate, and colon cancer cells; it examines the effects of whole extracts, individual compounds, and essential oils, and it discusses their underlying molecular mechanisms of action. The studied members of the Lamiaceae are sources of crucial phytochemicals that may be important modulators of cancer-related molecular targets and can be used as effective factors to support anti-tumor treatment.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) extract inhibits prostate cancer cell proliferation and survival by targeting Akt and mTOR

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in North American men and is typically classified as either androgen receptor positive or negative depending on the expression of the androgen receptor (AR). AR positive prostate cancer can be treated with hormone therapy while AR negative prostate cancer is aggressive and does not respond to hormone therapy. It has been previously reported that rosemary extract (RE) has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. In the present study, we found that treatment of the androgen-insensitive PC-3 prostate cancer cells with RE resulted in a significant inhibition of proliferation, survival, migration, Akt, and mTOR signaling. In addition, treatment of the androgen-sensitive 22RV1 prostate cancer cells with RE resulted in a significant inhibition of proliferation and survival while RE had no effect on normal prostate epithelial PNT1A cells. These findings suggest that RE has potent effects against prostate cancer and warrants further investigation.

The Impact of Herbal Infusion Consumption on Oxidative Stress and Cancer: The Good, the Bad, the Misunderstood

The release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress is associated with the development of many ailments, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer. The causal link between oxidative stress and cancer is well established and antioxidants are suggested as a protective mechanism against cancer development. Recently, an increase in the consumption of antioxidant supplements was observed globally. The main sources of these antioxidants include fruits, vegetables, and beverage. Herbal infusions are highly popular beverages consumed daily for different reasons. Studies showed the potent antioxidant effects of plants used in the preparation of some herbal infusions. Such herbal infusions represent an important source of antioxidants and can be used as a dietary protection against cancer. However, uncontrolled consumption of herbal infusions may cause toxicity and reduced antioxidant activity. In this review, eleven widely consumed herbal infusions were evaluated for their antioxidant capacities, anticancer potential and possible toxicity. These herbal infusions are highly popular and consumed as daily drinks in different countries. Studies discussed in this review will provide a solid ground for researchers to have better understanding of the use of herbal infusions to reduce oxidative stress and as protective supplements against cancer development.

Active Compound of Pharbitis Semen (Pharbitis nil Seeds) Suppressed KRAS-Driven Colorectal Cancer and Restored Muscle Cell Function during Cancer Progression

Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS)-driven colorectal cancer (CRC) is notorious to target with drugs and has shown ineffective treatment response. The seeds of Pharbitis nil, also known as morning glory, have been used as traditional medicine in East Asia. We focused on whether Pharbitis nil seeds have a suppressive effect on mutated KRAS-driven CRC as well as reserving muscle cell functions during CRC progression. Seeds of Pharbitis nil (Pharbitis semen) were separated by chromatography and the active compound of Pharbitis semen (PN) was purified by HPLC. The compound PN efficiently suppressed the proliferation of mutated KRAS-driven CRC cells and their clonogenic potentials in a concentration-dependent manner. It also induced apoptosis of SW480 human colon cancer cells and cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. The CRC related pathways, including RAS/ERK and AKT/mTOR, were assessed and PN reduced the phosphorylation of AKT and mTOR. Furthermore, PN preserved muscle cell proliferation and myotube formation in cancer conditioned media. In summary, PN significantly suppressed mutated KRAS-driven cell growth and reserved muscle cell function. Based on the current study, PN could be considered as a promising starting point for the development of a nature-derived drug against KRAS-mutated CRC progression.

Anticancer Activity of Rosmarinus officinalis L.: Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Potentials

Alternative treatments for neoplastic diseases with new drugs are necessary because the clinical effectiveness of chemotherapy is often reduced by collateral effects. Several natural substances of plant origin have been demonstrated to be successful in the prevention and treatment of numerous tumors. Rosmarinus officinalis L. is a herb that is cultivated in diverse areas of the world. There is increasing attention being directed towards the pharmaceutical capacities of rosemary, utilized for its anti-inflammatory, anti-infective or anticancer action. The antitumor effect of rosemary has been related to diverse mechanisms, such as the antioxidant effect, antiangiogenic properties, epigenetic actions, regulation of the immune response and anti-inflammatory response, modification of specific metabolic pathways, and increased expression of onco-suppressor genes. In this review, we aim to report the results of preclinical studies dealing with the anticancer effects of rosemary, the molecular mechanisms related to these actions, and the interactions between rosemary and anticancer drugs. The prospect of utilizing rosemary as an agent in the treatment of different neoplastic diseases is discussed. However, although the use of rosemary in the therapy of neoplasms constitutes a fascinating field of study, large and controlled studies must be conducted to definitively clarify the real impact of this substance in clinical practice.

The Effect of Polyphenolics in Extracts from Natural Materials on Metabolic Activity of Metastatic Melanoma WM-266-4 Cells

The importance of natural crops in medicine and pharmacy is growing. Beside bioactive compounds used directly as therapeutic agents, there are also raw materials used for drug synthesis or as a basic model for new biologically active compounds. In this paper, the optimum conditions for material extraction of Curcuma longa, Lycium barbarum, Equisetum arvense, Vitis vinifera, and Rosmarinus officinalis were investigated to achieve high antioxidant levels. The main aim of this study was to verify the correlation between the content of antioxidants, proanthocyanidins and total phenolic substances for certain extracts from the raw materials (Curcuma longa, Lycium barbarum, Equisetum arvense, Vitis vinifera and Rosmarinus officinalis) and the reduction of the metabolic activity of skin cancer cells.

Synergistic effects of pomegranate and rosemary extracts in combination with antibiotics against antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

The combination of plant extract and antibiotic represents a template for developing of antibiofilm drugs. This study investigated the synergistic effects of pomegranate/rosemary/antibiotic combinations against antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results showed that 17 (85%) of total P. aeruginosa isolates were biofilm producers; however, 5 (25%) isolates were demonstrated as a strong biofilm producer. The highest MIC level (1024 μg/ml) of tested antibiotics against strong biofilm producer isolates was observed with piperacillin, however the MIC ranges of ceftazidime, gentamycin, imipenem, and levofloxacin against these isolates were reached to (256-1024 μg/ml), (32-1024 μg/ml), (8-1024 μg/ml), and (8-512 μg/ml), respectively. PS-1 was the representative isolate for strong biofilm formation and high antibiotic resistance. 16S rRNA gene analysis suggested that PS-1 (accession No. MN619678) was identified as a strain of P. aeruginosa POA1. Pomegranate and rosemary extracts were the most effective extracts in biofilm inhibition, which significantly inhibited 91.93 and 90.83% of PS-1 biofilm, respectively. Notably, the synergism between both plant extracts and antibiotics has significantly reduced the MICs of used antibiotics at the level lower than the susceptibility breakpoints. Pomegranate/rosemary/antibiotic combinations achieved the highest biofilm eradication, which ranging from 90.0 to 99.6%, followed by the eradication ranges of pomegranate/rosemary combination, rosemary, and pomegranate extracts, which reached to (76.5-85.4%), (53.1-73.7%), and (41.2-71.5%), respectively. The findings suggest that pomegranate/rosemary/antibiotic combinations may be an effective therapeutic agent for antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation of P. aeruginosa.

Phenolic Acids of Plant Origin-A Review on Their Antioxidant Activity In Vitro (O/W Emulsion Systems) Along with Their in Vivo Health Biochemical Properties

Nature has generously offered a wide range of herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, mint, basil) rich in many polyphenols and other phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant and biochemical properties. This paper focuses on several natural occurring phenolic acids (caffeic, carnosic, ferulic, gallic, p-coumaric, rosmarinic, vanillic) and first gives an overview of their most common natural plant sources. A summary of the recently reported antioxidant activities of the phenolic acids in o/w emulsions is also provided as an in vitro lipid-based model system. Exploring the interfacial activity of phenolic acids could help to further elucidate their potential health properties against oxidative stress conditions of biological membranes (such as lipoproteins). Finally, this review reports on the latest literature evidence concerning specific biochemical properties of the examined phenolic acids.

Marine Invertebrate Extracts Induce Colon Cancer Cell Death via ROS-Mediated DNA Oxidative Damage and Mitochondrial Impairment

Marine compounds are a potential source of new anticancer drugs. In this study, the antiproliferative effects of 20 invertebrate marine extracts on three colon cancer cell models (HGUE-C-1, HT-29, and SW-480) were evaluated. Extracts from two nudibranchs (Phyllidia varicosa, NA and Dolabella auricularia, NB), a holothurian (Pseudocol ochirus violaceus, PS), and a soft coral (Carotalcyon sp., CR) were selected due to their potent cytotoxic capacities. The four marine extracts exhibited strong antiproliferative effects and induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M transition, which evolved into early apoptosis in the case of the CR, NA, and NB extracts and necrotic cell death in the case of the PS extract. All the extracts induced, to some extent, intracellular ROS accumulation, mitochondrial depolarization, caspase activation, and DNA damage. The compositions of the four extracts were fully characterized via HPLC-ESI-TOF-MS analysis, which identified up to 98 compounds. We propose that, among the most abundant compounds identified in each extract, diterpenes, steroids, and sesqui- and seterterpenes (CR); cembranolides (PS); diterpenes, polyketides, and indole terpenes (NA); and porphyrin, drimenyl cyclohexanone, and polar steroids (NB) might be candidates for the observed activity. We postulate that reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation is responsible for the subsequent DNA damage, mitochondrial depolarization, and cell cycle arrest, ultimately inducing cell death by either apoptosis or necrosis.

Antioxidant Defenses: A Context-Specific Vulnerability of Cancer Cells

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well known for their capacity to cause DNA damage, augment mutagenesis, and thereby promote oncogenic transformation. Similarly, agents that reduce ROS levels (antioxidants) are frequently thought to have anti-cancer properties given their propensity to minimize DNA damage and mutagenesis. However, numerous clinical studies focused on antioxidants suggest that this is a facile premise and that antioxidant capacity can be important for cancer cells in a similar fashion to normal cells. As a consequence of this realization, numerous laboratories have been motivated to investigate the biological underpinnings explaining how and when antioxidant activity can potentially be beneficial to cancer cells. Relatedly, it has become clear that the reliance of cancer cells on antioxidant activity in certain contexts represents a potential vulnerability that could be exploited for therapeutic gain. Here, we review some of the recent, exciting findings documenting how cancer cells utilized antioxidant activity and under what circumstances this activity could represent an opportunity for selective elimination of cancer cells.

Antioxidant and Photoprotective Activity of Apigenin and its Potassium Salt Derivative in Human Keratinocytes and Absorption in Caco-2 Cell Monolayers

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, especially types A (UVA) and B (UVB), is one of the main causes of skin disorders, including photoaging and skin cancer. Ultraviolent radiation causes oxidative stress, inflammation, p53 induction, DNA damage, mutagenesis, and oxidation of various molecules such as lipids and proteins. In recent decades, the use of polyphenols as molecules with an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity has increased. However, some of these compounds are poorly soluble, and information regarding their absorption and bioavailability is scarce. The main objective of this study was to compare the intestinal absorption and biological activity of apigenin and its more soluble potassium salt (apigenin-K) in terms of antioxidant and photoprotective capacity. Photoprotective effects against UVA and UVB radiation were studied in human keratinocytes, and antioxidant capacity was determined by different methods, including trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays. Finally, the intestinal absorption of both apigenins was determined using an in vitro Caco-2 cell model. Apigenin showed a slightly higher antioxidant capacity in antioxidant activity assays when compared with apigenin-K. However, no significant differences were obtained for their photoprotective capacities against UVA or UVB. Results indicated that both apigenins protected cell viability in approximately 50% at 5 J/m² of UVA and 90% at 500 J/m² of UVB radiation. Regarding intestinal absorption, both apigenins showed similar apparent permeabilities (P_app), 1.81 × 10^-5 cm/s and 1.78 × 10^-5 cm/s, respectively. Taken together, these results suggest that both apigenins may be interesting candidates for the development of oral (nutraceutical) and topical photoprotective ingredients against UVA and UVB-induced skin damage, but the increased water solubility of apigenin-K makes it the best candidate for further development.

The Multitarget Activity of Natural Extracts on Cancer: Synergy and Xenohormesis

It is estimated that over 60% of the approved drugs and new drug developments for cancer and infectious diseases are from natural origin. The use of natural compounds as a potential source of antitumor agents has been deeply studied in many cancer models, both in vitro and in vivo. Most of the Western medicine studies are based on the use of highly selective pure compounds with strong specificity for their targets such as colchicine or taxol. Nevertheless, approximately 60% of fairly specific drugs in their initial research fail because of toxicity or ineffectiveness in late-stage preclinical studies. Moreover, cancer is a multifaceted disease that in most cases deserves a polypharmacological therapeutic approach. Complex plant-derived mixtures such as natural extracts are difficult to characterize and hardly exhibit high pharmacological potency. However, in some cases, these may provide an advantage due to their multitargeted mode of action and potential synergistic behavior. The polypharmacology approach appears to be a plausible explanation for the multigargeted mechanism of complex natural extracts on different proteins within the same signalling pathway and in several biochemical pathways at once. This review focuses on the different aspects of natural extracts in the context of anticancer activity drug development, with special attention to synergy studies and xenohormesis.